Meet the Governors

Ian Moore - Chair of Governors / Chair of Resources (Parent Governor)

I joined the Governing Board at Harwood Meadows in 2008 and I am currently the Chair of Governors. I decided to apply to be a governor when my first child of 3 started at Harwood Meadows, and I still have two children attending, with the oldest now left for Turton High School.

 

I thoroughly enjoy being a Governor in a primary school and I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm to benefit the children at Harwood Meadows.  I also sit on the Finance Sub-Committee.

 

My hobbies are football, swimming and being a dad to 3 amazing children.

Linda Berry - Vice Chair of Governors / Chair of ECM (Community Governor)

I've been a governor at Harwood Meadows for over ten years and am currently the Vice-Chair. My background is science and higher education, having worked at the University of Manchester for 40 years. Now retired, I spend two mornings per week with the Reception class and I love every minute! My governor roles are English, Science, Health & Safety, Safeguarding and keeping track of training for all governors. I love to read especially real-life adventure and travel books but closer to home I am a keen painter and ballroom dancer.

Siobain Barnes - Head Teacher

In February 2004, I became headteacher of Harwood Meadows and have been a member of the governing body for all of this time. Having worked in three local authorities, eight different schools and taught every primary class (yes, I am that old!), I thoroughly enjoy supporting the children and staff of Harwood Meadows in their learning and teaching. In addition, I support other primary schools in a consultative capacity across several Las.

 

Although I studied English for my degree, I also have a passion for music and the arts. All children should have the opportunity to sparkle and I believe that education should offer a myriad of experiences and opportunities that will enable every child to find their passion and shine.

 

In my leisure time, I enjoy reading, singing, travelling and sunshine. It is one of my ambitions to go to Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans and, hopefully, combine all those activities!

Gary Harvey (Parent Governor)

I’ve been a governor for Harwood Meadows for many years, I am involved in the finance of the school and over the years the setting up of the after school club.  Also, I have been involved in the new kitchen design in our past refit.  I also work in the school as a drama coach, building confidence in the children.  I am the owner of Classact Drama Services and work in many other schools. 

Judith Berry (Community Governor)

Having studied English and Politics at the University of Sheffield for my B.A., I achieved my teaching qualification and, subsequently, an M.A. in Special Educational Needs at the University of Lancaster.  I spent my entire working life in teaching, eventually becoming a Deputy Headteacher in a secondary school.

 

When I retired, I became a Community Governor at Harwood Meadows and, more recently, Canon Slade. I am the governor with oversight of Special Needs and Disabilities in both schools.

I attend Full Governors Meetings and the Every Child Matters sub committee at Harwood Meadows.

Having spent my entire teaching career in four secondary schools, it is always a delight to visit the school and interact with younger children.

 

My hobbies are reading, listening to music, going to the theatre, studying French and singing in a gospel choir. I am also a J.P.

Melanie Williamson (Community Governor)

I have been a Governor at Harwood Meadows for over 15 years, mainly as a Parent Governor whilst my 2 youngest children Joshua and Charlotte were pupils, and latterly as a Community Governor.  I find the role challenging, but also extremely rewarding.  I am a mum of 3 and my Granddaughter Violet is currently in Year 1.  My hobbies include dog walking and taking my daughter to horse competitions! 

 

Julian Bevan - Assistant Head Teacher / SENCo / Year 6 Class Teacher (Staff Governor)

I have been a governor at Harwood Meadows since 2016 and have been a member of staff since 2006. I am currently teaching in Year 6 and thoroughly enjoy supporting the children in their learning and on their journey through school and beyond.

 

I studied Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Kent at Canterbury and following that I spent a year in France (Provence) where I immersed myself in French culture. In between spending as much time as I can with my wife and two children, I enjoy playing the piano and guitar, mountain biking and heading out into the hills for long walks!